New delhi: China on Thursday affirmed that India remains committed to the one-China policy following diplomatic discussions between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar in New Delhi. The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, Mao Ning, announced at a news conference in Beijing that Jaishankar reiterated India's stance that Taiwan is considered part of China's territory.
According to Anadolu Agency, during Wang's recent two-day visit to India, he engaged in talks with key officials including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and Jaishankar. A Chinese readout of the discussions highlighted India's reaffirmation of its long-standing position on Taiwan, emphasizing that "Taiwan is part of China," and that India has historically supported the one-China policy. However, Indian readouts from the meetings did not reference any discussions about Taiwan.
Subsequent media reports, citing Indian government sources, suggested that New Delhi communicated to Beijing its intention to maintain its economic, technological, and cultural ties with Taiwan, consistent with global practices. Taiwan, which China regards as a 'breakaway province,' has maintained its independence since 1949 and operates three offices in India.
Beijing expressed surprise at the clarification from India. Mao Ning stated that some elements in India might be attempting to challenge China's sovereignty regarding Taiwan and hinder the progression of China-India relations. Mao voiced "grave concern" over these developments. Despite these tensions, both nations acknowledged progress in their relationship, which had been strained since a 2019 border incident in Ladakh, leading to a deadly clash in 2020.
Official statements from both countries indicated an agreement to resume direct flights and ease visa issuance for tourism, business, and media purposes. Additionally, they agreed to reopen three traditional border trading markets and establish expert groups to enhance border management and maintain peace. China also committed to sharing hydrological information with India during emergencies on humanitarian grounds.